First launched in 2002, the Jazz 5 door supermini has always stuck to the winning formula of compact exterior dimensions with generous interior space and enviable reliability.

Now Honda has launched the all-new third generation model. Visually it’s much more striking, with sculpted and dynamic lines, featuring a high window line and headlight and grille design shared with the new Honda HR-V SUV.

The new Jazz comes with a plethora of sophisticated safety technologies. Standard across the model range is Honda’s City-Brake Active system. SE and EX models additionally benefit from Honda’s Driver Assistance Safety Pack, which uses radar sensors, plus forward-and rear-facing cameras. This comprehensive suite of active safety technologies includes Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning and High-beam Support System.

Gone are the old 1.2 and 1.4 litre powertrains and in their place just one engine option, a new more efficient 1.3 litre i-VTEC petrol unit from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series. It delivers 102 PS at 6,000 rpm and is available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a newly developed CVT auto box. Economy and Emissions for the basic S specification model are 61.4 mpg and 106 g/km of CO2, respectively.

Power delivery from the 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine is smooth and linear and while it’s certainly no ball of fire, it still manages to endow the Jazz with respectable performance – 0-62mph takes 11.2 seconds, with a top speed of 118 mph. And although it’s not as sharp to drive as a Ford Fiesta, the Jazz handles respectably around corners, while the steering is quicker than before and the six-speed gearbox is slick and easy to use. Ride comfort and refinement also see an improvement over the previous generation model.

A new platform increases overall length by 95 mm, but efficient packaging means that the latest Jazz is proportionally even bigger. Occupants now benefit from both boot space (354 litres with the rear seats up and 897 litres with the rear seats down) and highly adaptable cargo carrying versatility, thanks to the aptly named ‘Magic Seats’ – which at the pull of two levers – lift the rear seat bases flush with the seat backs, to maximize the rear footwell space for carrying taller items. Useful cup holders and cubbies are dotted all around the cabin.

Passenger space is also unrivalled in this class - the combination of a big windscreen and high roofline make it easy to forget you’re in a supermini. There’s a comfortable amount of head and legroom for those up front and rear passengers aren’t short-changed either.

Specifications are generous across the range, with base-grade S models (starting from £13,495) fitted as standard with convenience features such as air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter and dusk sensing auto lights. Every grade comes with Honda’s City-Brake Active to help avoid low-speed accidents.

The mid-grade SE model, priced from £14,595, adds front and rear parking sensors, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors and 15” alloy wheels. Honda’s Driver Assistance Safety Pack is also included, giving owners the extra reassurance of five advanced active safety aids.

Those opting for the top-grade EX model (from £15,995) will appreciate smart entry and start, automatic climate control and six-speaker audio upgrade. Styling is enhanced with 16-inch alloy wheels and front fog lamps.

Standard on SE and EX models is Honda Connect in-car infotainment system. This Android-based system features an app-based ‘pinch, swipe and tap‘ interface accessed on a seven-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash. Honda Connect comes with pre-installed apps, with others available for download from the Honda App Centre. These give quick access to internet-based services such as web browsing, real-time traffic information, news and weather, social media, and internet music stations.

Integrated Garmin navigation is available as an option on SE and EX models.

Verdict:

The new Honda Jazz is even more practical and spacious than before, while also boasting more distinctive looks and a sharper drive.

Tech spec:

Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC SE Navi
Price: £15,605
Engine: 1.3-litre petrol
Power: 102 PS
Torque: 123 Nm
0-62mph: 11.2 seconds
Top speed: 118mph
Fuel economy: 56.5mpg
CO2 Emissions: 116g/km